We all need to take some time off once in a while and so do our cats! What better way to spend your holidays than with your best friend? Whoohoo, your first road trip with a cat! It’s going to be lots of fun!
But then, it starts to go through your mind how this isn’t going to end well. There are a bunch of things that can go very wrong the minute you get in that vehicle. “What if my holiday turns out to be a real nightmare?”
The first time I started packing up for a road trip with my cat I didn’t think it was necessary to double-check stuff. I just thought that I got this and that this can’t be a hard thing to do.
If you’re riding in a car with your furry companion for the first time, I can only assume how excited you are. I was through the roof once I found out I could bring my cat with me on vacation.
However, once that feeling of joy settles down and you start thinking about the actual journey, it can set a totally different mood. You start to wonder how is your feline going to behave on this road trip.
1. Safety first
The most important thing would be your cat’s safety, especially if she’s traveling for the first time. When felines aren’t acquainted with a new space, they can easily get stressed out. If you have a silly cat like I do, she’ll probably start bashing things around to try and escape back to her humble abode. The bad news is that it really takes her some time to figure out that it’s not going to happen.
For instance, cats like to hide somewhere when they’re scared. A basic, appropriate-sized plastic carrier like this one will do the trick all while giving her some space to turn and move around.
2. Get comfy
Is a road trip a totally new thing to your cat? You might want to consider this before heading on a long journey, especially if it involves a couple of hours of driving at high speed.
The first time I went on an adventure like that with my furry friend, I paid close attention to her behavior. What I did was use lots of treats to bribe her. I scattered them around the car without starting the engine. I turned the ignition key only when she felt comfortable enough to just lounge on the seat. If this goes well with your feline, the next step would be driving around the block for a short amount of time. This way, you’re not risking her losing her mind in the middle of the road trip. It also guarantees no emergency stops and breaks because she’s meowing so loud in the back.
3. Calming remedies
Perhaps you have a cat that’s usually nervous even without the noise of the engine and the strange sounds coming from the street. This can be tricky because her anxiety will definitely be at its peak now. Before heading on this adventure, talk to your veterinarian about the travel sprays and see what they recommend. After all, medically speaking, they know your feline best. And if you’re skeptical about using a calming spray, there are other options.
For instance, my pet absolutely hates the sound of a spray can. So I figured why make her even more uncomfortable than she already is? On top of all the anxiety Ivy’s already feeling while in the car, this would be like adding fuel to an already raging fire!
So I did a bit of research, talked to my cat’s doctors, peeked into different pet shops, and asked for people’s recommendations. Some cat-appropriate treats have a relaxing effect on nervous pets. What better way to calm down a guzzler?
4. Pack up!
Don’t you just hate when you’ve zipped up all your bags and then you see something you left out? It wouldn’t be such a big deal if it was a piece of clothing or something you can go without. However, when it comes to your furbaby, you need to have everything sorted out and in one place.
This includes her favorite toys to help her relax a bit during the drive. Don’t expect her to play with them the minute she hops in her carrier. They’ll serve her as more of a comfort blanket. Felines rely highly on their sense of smell and sniffing a familiar toy may help calm her down.
Next to toys, make sure to bring some food if it’s a longer trip. No one likes to be hungry and the same goes for your greedy feline. However, give her lunch when you stop the car or take a quick break outside so it doesn’t end up all over your seats!
5. Bring a loo with you
Just like you sometimes can’t wait to get to the restroom, your pet might have the same urge! Felines can go from 24 to 48 hours without urinating. However, it’s not recommended to wait this long until she can relieve herself.
But where will she do her business if she’s stuck in the car? That’s where her litter box comes to the rescue. You probably already packed it and put it in your trunk because she’ll need it once you get to your destination.
But what if she has to go while you’re driving and can’t make any emergency stops? To avoid this from happening, make sure you’re familiar with your pet’s routine. Try to head on the road trip after she’s done her business.
6. Stay hydrated!
One of the most crucial things for all living beings is to stay hydrated. Humans and their four-legged companions have one thing in common – both can last without water for up to three days.
Indeed, felines aren’t really fond of water but they can crave it in situations like these. Therefore, make sure to pack up a portable, fresh bottle of water just in case. If she refuses to drink from it, you can always buy one of those traveling plastic bowls.
Keep in mind that lapping up water will bring out another urge in your feline. That’s why you have to pay close attention to the previous tip we talked about!
7. Take breaks
No one likes to be cramped up in a car for a long period of time. You’ll probably want to take a few quick stops here and there to stretch your legs.
If your pet’s a curious one, these stops could be an additional way to have more fun on your road trip. I always used to do a five-minute walk with my Simba on a harness and a lead. She’s just an adventurous spirit and beams of joy because of that!
But remember my other cat who’s not a fan of traveling? Too many stops wouldn’t be acceptable for her in that condition. She’d probably become even more alert with all the doors opening and closing shut and I’d be trying my luck with starting the car all over again. So make sure you make all the right stops when necessary and don’t make them so often.
8. Never leave your cat in a hot car!
During the road trip with your cat, your car is on and you have air conditioning the whole time you’re traveling. Hot summer roads can be a fun thing to experience with wind in your hair.
However, maybe you’ll need to take a quick stop and leave your pet by herself for a minute or two. This can be completely safe for her but it can also turn out to be quite a disaster.
Even if it’s not too hot on the outside and the temperature actually suits you, you have to know that it’s a completely different thing in a heated car. If your cat’s trapped in it for longer than just a couple of minutes, it could feel like she’s in an oven!
9. Create a Cozy Space
To make your road trip cat-friendly, create a cozy space in the car where your cat feels secure. Use a comfortable cat carrier or set up a small bed with familiar blankets and toys. Cats love familiar scents, so include their favorite blanket or cloth. This setup helps reduce stress and keeps your cat calm during the journey.
Place the cozy space in a stable area to avoid unnecessary movement. Check that the temperature is comfortable and not too cold or hot, ensuring your cat’s comfort throughout the trip. Regularly reassure your cat with gentle words and occasional treats.
10. Engage with Interactive Toys
Keeping your cat entertained is crucial for a peaceful road trip. Bring along interactive toys like feather wands or treat puzzles to engage your cat’s mind. These toys provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom during long stretches of travel.
Rotate toys every couple of hours to keep your cat interested. This not only keeps them occupied but also helps alleviate travel-related stress. Having a variety of toys on hand ensures your cat has something to focus on other than the moving environment. Interactive play can make travel time fly by for your feline friend.
11. Monitor Your Cat’s Health
It’s important to observe your cat’s health while traveling. Pay close attention to their behavior for signs of stress or illness. Make sure to inspect their eyes and ears for any unusual changes.
Make sure your cat is eating and drinking adequately, and look for any changes in their litter box habits. If you notice anything unusual, be prepared to contact a vet. Carry a basic first-aid kit tailored for cats, including essential items like bandages and antiseptic wipes. Being proactive about your cat’s health will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both of you.
12. Use a GPS Tracker
Keeping track of your cat’s location is crucial during a road trip. A GPS tracker ensures you know their whereabouts at all times. These devices typically attach to your cat’s collar and sync with your smartphone, providing real-time tracking. This is particularly useful if your cat is prone to wandering.
The peace of mind knowing you can quickly locate your cat if they manage to slip away is invaluable. It’s a small investment for a significant increase in safety.
13. Choose the Right Travel Litter Box
A travel-friendly litter box is a must-have for a road trip with your cat. Opt for a compact, portable design that’s easy to clean and contains odors effectively. Look for features like a secure lid and durable material. This ensures no spills or unpleasant smells during the journey.
Having a familiar spot for your cat to relieve itself reduces stress, making the trip more comfortable for everyone.
14. Use a Harness and Leash
Traveling with a cat requires safety measures, and a harness with a leash is paramount. Cats are curious creatures, and the second you open the car door, your furry friend might decide to explore the unknown. A well-fitted harness ensures that even if your cat tries to dash out, you have control.
Opt for a bright, comfortable harness that doesn’t restrict movement but offers security.
During breaks, the leash allows your cat some freedom while keeping them safe. Familiarize your cat with the harness before the trip to reduce stress and increase comfort.
15. Soothing Music Playlist
Music can be a soothing companion on a long road trip, not just for humans but for cats too. Creating a playlist of calming music can help ease your cat’s anxiety and make the journey more pleasant.
Studies suggest that classical music or specially composed cat music can reduce stress in animals. Play these tunes at a low volume to create a serene environment.
Ensure that the music is gentle and avoid sudden loud sounds that may startle your pet. The rhythmic melodies can act as a calming balm, helping your cat relax and even nap during the travel.